By Paul Sandle and Tim Hepher LONDON/DUBLIN (Reuters) – European airlines and hotel chains are seeing bookings recover to levels barely seen since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, led by demand for shorter trips, although long-distance travel remains on the ropes. The pandemic led to international travel virtually shutting down as governments around the world curbed entry. However, the easing of curbs and bottled-up travel demand have led to an abrupt upswing in short- and medium-haul trips. “There is a lot of pent-up demand. People want to see their families and travel again,” said Phil Se…